Additional Resources

Young Plastic Surgeons Forum

The ASPS Young Plastic Surgeons (YPS) Forum is a diverse community and resource for young plastic surgeons which provides opportunities for networking, sharing of ideas, political advocacy and leadership development.

Acting as a liaison between plastic surgeons in the early stages of their careers and established ASPS Member Surgeons, the YPS Forum facilitates opportunities for young plastic surgeons to become involved in the Society, fostering openness to new ideas and fresh perspectives while having fun.

All plastic surgeons under the age of 42 and/or have been in practice for fewer than eight years are considered "young plastic surgeons."

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I sign up to be part of the YPS Forum?

All eligible young plastic surgeons comprise the YPS Forum. So if you are a plastic surgeon, are under the age of 42, and/or have been in practice for less than eight years, YOU are a part of the YPS Forum.

What is the difference between the YPS Steering Committee and the YPS Forum?

The YPS Steering Committee is composed of members of the YPS Forum who have volunteered to take on the organizational and leadership roles in the organization. It is an official committee to which you must be appointed by the regular ASPS committee selection process.

The YPS Steering Committee works to bring information on ASPS/PSF to residents and young plastic surgeons and encourage their professional development through membership in ASPS. Participation on a subcommittee is an opportunity for young members to become involved in ASPS. The committee also promotes a YPS auditor program inviting young surgeons to audit committees of interest.

What does the YPS Steering Committee actually do?

The YPS Steering Committee hosts and plans a number of activities at the Annual Meeting:

The YPS Forum Lunch (open to YPS Forum members)

Residents Day

The Breakfast of Champions session

The Fresh Faces panel presentation

Medical Students Day

The YPS Steering Committee awards the Young at Heart Award at the Annual Meeting

The YPS Steering Committee also provides input to the Practice Management Education Committee on programming for the annual Senior Residents Conference.

The publications workgroup writes and edits the YPS Perspectives pages of PSN.

The advocacy workgroup participates in AMA activities and encourages participation in advocacy efforts spearheaded by ASPS.

The YPS Steering Committee members are often called upon to be a part of task forces, committees and workgroups. They are asked to provide input on other timely issues and projects of the Society. Most YPS Steering Committee members serve on a number of ASPS committees.

How do I apply to be on the Steering Committee?

The members-only side of the ASPS website has a link to committee applications which usually have a deadline of July 1st annually. Simply fill out the committee application and check the YPS Steering Committee box. Include an explanation on why you want to be on the YPS Steering Committee. The Steering Committee is appointed annually and the term begins at each ASPS Annual Meeting.

What if I am not on the YPS Steering Committee? How do I become involved?

You don't need to be on the Steering Committee to be involved in the ASPS YPS.

Another way is to show up at the YPS Forum at the Annual Meeting. Make sure to introduce yourself to one of us and let us know you are interested in serving. Stick around for our Steering Committee meeting to see what we do. There is always work to be done and volunteers are always welcome.